Mark and I have never really done the traditional Valentine’s Day dinner thing. In college, one of us always had class. After we graduated, we started going to Seton Hall Basketball games. Fancy dinners? They just don’t fit.

Still, I wanted to make something we could enjoy on Valentine’s Day. When I ran across a recipe for chocolate oatmeal I knew I had a winner. This only takes about 10 minutes to whip together, which makes it perfect for a work day. And, it’s topped off with a heap of berries and walnuts. This is a treat you can feel great about making your Valentine.

Chocolate Oatmeal
(inspired by Happy Healthy Long Life)
Serves 2 

2 c. water
1/8 t. salt
1  c. old fashioned oats
3 T. unsweetened cocoa powder
2 T. agave (or more, to taste)
1/4 c. blueberries
1/4 c. strawberries chopped
1/4 c. walnuts, chopped

In a small saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil. In a small bowl, mix oats and cocoa powder.

When water is boiling, reduce heat to medium and stir in oats and cocoa. Cook over medium for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in agave. Let cool for two minutes.

Divide oatmeal between two bowls. Top each with half of the blueberries, strawberries and walnuts.